The South African Independent Film Festival Cape Town

Location: Cinema 3, Labia Theatre
Time: 11:30 - 12:45
Shortlisted pitching teams will present their vision at SAIFF Pitching Competition to a panel of industry professionals.

Location: Cinema 1, Labia Theatre
Time: 11:30 - 13:45
Director: Antonio Muñoz de Mesa
Filmmaker in Attendance + Q&A

From Spanish filmmaker Antonio Muñoz de Mesa comes Santa Zeta, a darkly satirical and visually stunning feature that explores the absurdities of faith, fame, and fanaticism.

Equal parts comedy and social critique, the film paints a surreal portrait of modern society’s obsession with spectacle, told through unforgettable imagery and biting humour.

Following the screening, join Antonio Muñoz de Mesa for a Q&A session, where he unpacks the creative process and philosophical questions behind his latest work.

Location: Cinema 3, Labia Theatre
Time: 13:00 - 14:15

Buckle up for more thrilling rides through sci-fi, fantasy, and supernatural shorts that showcase the imagination and craft of daring filmmakers.

This collection celebrates genre storytelling that challenges conventions and expands cinematic boundaries.

After the screening, join the filmmakers for a Q&A discussion on their creative journeys and what it means to make genre films in South Africa today.

- UNINTERPRETED DREAM (FRANCE)
- BINDING AGREEMENT (SA)
- CLOSED CIRCUIT (AUSTRALIA)
- BOOGIEHEADS (SA)
- MIDNIGHT MOVIE CLUB (SA)
- LILA'S RIBBON (SA)

Location: Labia Cinema 1 & The Bioscope
Time: 14:00 - 16:15
Director: Ian Gabriel
Filmmaker in Attendance + Q&A

From acclaimed South African director Ian Gabriel (Four Corners) comes Death of a Whistle Blower, a tense and timely political thriller about truth, power, and sacrifice.

Inspired by real-world events, the film follows a journalist who uncovers a conspiracy that could cost her everything. With powerful performances and Gabriel’s trademark intensity, this is South African cinema at its most urgent and compelling.

Stay for a post-screening Q&A with Ian Gabriel, as he reflects on the making of the film and the importance of truth-telling in today's society.

SHORTS PACKAGE #14: GENRE FILMS
Time: 14:30 - 16:00
Venue: Cinema 3, Labia Theatre

- PREY.KILL.FUCK.REPEAT (FINLAND)
- THE HOUSE THAT NEVER SLEEPS (SA)
- AMAZEZE (SA)
- EARTH IN 100 seconds (UK)
- BENE CULTURALE (GERMANY/ ITALY)

Location: Cinema 3, Labia Theatre
Time: 16:30 - 18:00
Director: Jim Hosking

From the eccentric mind of Jim Hosking (The Greasy Strangler) comes Ebony & Ivory, a darkly comic, surreal exploration of identity, obsession, and absurdity.

Blending the bizarre and the heartfelt, Hosking’s distinctive style creates a film that’s both shocking and strangely tender.

Location: Gorgeous George Hotel, St Georges Mall
Time: 18:30 - 20:00

Celebrate the very best of independent cinema at the South African Independent Film Festival Awards Ceremony 2025, an evening dedicated to honouring creativity, innovation, and storytelling excellence.

Join filmmakers, industry professionals, and special guests as we announce the winners across all categories, including Best Feature Film, Best Short, Best Documentary, Best Director, and the Audience Award.

Expect inspiring speeches, unforgettable moments, and an atmosphere filled with excitement and pride.

IF YOU HAVE PURCHASED A TICKET FOR ANY SCREENING, ENTRY TO THE OPENING NIGHT PARTY IS FREE. OTHERWISE, TICKETS ARE FREE REGARDLESS.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Location: The Gorgeous George Hotel, St Georges Mall
Time: 20:00 - 00:00

End the festival journey on a high note at the Closing Night Party with a vibrant finale bringing together filmmakers, audiences, and festival partners for one last celebration of creativity and collaboration.

Raise a glass to the winners, share your festival highlights, and dance the night away as we toast another incredible year of storytelling and community.